It used to be that we’d hear about well-to-do ladies jetting off somewhere for a “Girls’ Weekend” – a fun and carefree few days free of work stresses and family commitments. These days, though, it’s become quite common for a group of adult women to plan a weekend away. Maybe it’s a group of high school or college friends who’ve been separated by time and distance…or maybe it’s the neighborhood gals who’d prefer to gab over a drink by the pool rather than coffee at the nearest Starbuck’s. Either way, there’s no time like the present to start planning such a getaway.

Where and when to go…the options are limitless. Start by deciding on a budget. Will you fly or drive? Do you want warm weather activities or a spa getaway in the middle of winter? It’s sometimes hard to take advantage of those “last-minute deals” because for most people, life requires advance planning.
Autumn is a great time to gather the group. The kids are back in school and the family calendar is fairly set for the next couple months. You might be just a short drive away from a spot where you can enjoy watching the colorful autumn foliage.
Autumn is a great time to gather the group. The kids are back in school and the family calendar is fairly set for the next couple months. You might be just a short drive away from a spot where you can enjoy watching the colorful autumn foliage.

A group of my friends and I recently spent a weekend at a rented cottage on a lake, taking advantage of the last precious days of summer weather. We had no particular agenda…just to relax and enjoy each other’s company. We decided to eat-in rather than going out to restaurants and, as moms generally do, brought enough food – and adult beverages – to feed an army! We watched chick flicks, played games, took walks and ate junk food! It felt indulgent and I know it was time well spent. Reinforcing relationships is something we too often take for granted.
Want something a little more “upscale”? How about a spa resort? A city escape filled with fine dining, shopping and theater tickets? Maybe you want to take advantage of a special event somewhere like the South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Miami Beach, ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, or the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival, Night of Joy or International Food & Wine Festival in Orlando. There’s something for every season, every interest and every budget.
Take some time out of your year to spend it with your girlfriends and let me know if I can assist with your plans. As always, have happy and safe travels.
Take some time out of your year to spend it with your girlfriends and let me know if I can assist with your plans. As always, have happy and safe travels.